
3C=3C 



Diary of 

Ephraim 

Shelby 

Dodd 



Member of Company D 
Terry's Texas Rangers 



DECEMBER 4, 1862 
—JANUARY 1. 1864 



PRESS OF E. I,. SI KCK 
AUSTIN ISM 



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1 II '1 11— UCI33C=:- 




Diary of 




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Ephraim 

Shelby 

Dodd 

1 1 




j 


Member of Company D 
Terry's Texas Rangers 






DECEMBER 4, 1862 

—JANUARY 1, 1864 

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PRESS OF E. L. STECK 
AUSTIN 1914 




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INTRODUCTORY NOTE 



In his history of "Terry's Texas Rangers," Mr. L. B. Giles 
narrates the following tragic incident of the East Tennessee 
campaign : 

"It was during this winter that one of the saddest events 
in all our career happened : the hanging of E. S. Dodd by the 
enemy. He was a member of Company D. He was of a good 
family and well educated. For many years he kept a diary, 
setting down at night the happenings of the day. He was taken 
prisoner with this diary in his pocket. On that evidence alone 
he was condemned and executed as a spy." 

In January, 1914, the State Librarian received a letter from 
a resident of New York State, informing him that she had in 
her possession a diary found on the body of a Texas Ranger 
hung as a spy. Negotiations for its acquisition by the State 
Library were opened at once, and terminated successfully. The 
only information about the diary this person could give was 
that it "was found by a lieutenant from a N. II. regiment, 
who for 3^ears was a friend of our family, and some time before 
his death (which occurred six years ago) he gave it to me." 

E. S. Dodd came to Texas from Kentucky late in 1860 or 
early in 1861. After visiting an uncle, James L. L. McCall, 
at AVaco, he made his home wtih another uncle. Dr. John R. 
McCall, at Austin. He wasljeflching school near Austin, and was 
not vet out of his teens, ■wh'efi he enlisted in Terry's Rangei's. 



Ernest AVilliam AVinki.kr 



Tex.vs State Library 
November 5, 1914 



Sift 

CarT5et;i« Irstltution 

of Washington 



DIARY OF EPHRAHE SHELBY DODD 



Transferred from old Diary. 

Thursday, Decemher Wi, 1862 — I went out from ]\I. to Mr. , 

live mile-s from town. I went from there to Gen'l ^Morgan's 

IIead(|narters, leaving the Knox county filly at Mr. and 

riding Walker's horse. I took supper at Lewis Black's, ^Morgan's 
Headquarters. The Gen'l wa.s in town ])ut came in .just after 
supper. I went on to Chenault's camp and staid all night with 
John and Van Benton. 

Fridntij, ^>lli — Snowed all day. I rode to Alexandria and went 
out to Mr. Bass', seven miles, got there about night. I found 
all well. 

Saturday, 6//( — 1 remained quiet to-day. ^li.ss Frances 
came over. T staid all night and Sunday, 7th, I started on my 
return to camp. Came to Statesville, got pair of boots, $25. 
Came out three or four miles and staid all night. 

Monday, StJi — I got some cloth and came to town (]\L) ; 
stopped but a .short time. I saw Miss Kate, received a nice 
present, a sack to carry tobacco, made of red, white and blue. 
I came out to ^Ir. House's and staid all night. 

Tuesday, 9th — Came back to camp. Company on picket. 
Burke in command at camp. I was put on comm. guard. 

Wednesday, M)lh — Lieut. Ellis went on a scout. I went with 
him. Teii men detail went down on Wilson pike, turned off to 
left and staid all night with i\Ir. Smith, a clever man, nice 
family, daughters, etc. 

Thursday, 11th — Crossed the railroad and went down near 
Fi-anklin. Got a guide and went down country through farms, 
etc., to near lirentwood, sto])ped at .Miss ]\lag. ^IcGarrock's. 
Came back to ^Ir. Cami^bell's, two miles froni Franklin, and 
staid all night. 

Friflay, 12/// — This morning just at daylight, while in the act 
of eating bi-eakfast, the tight conunenced in town. A\''e put out 
inunediately ; found the Yanks in possesion of the town when 
we got there. Their pickets fired on us. We then crossed the 



4 DiAUY OF EP]1K.\I.M SlIEI.By DODD 

creek to go roiuul and get with Smith. Got into Mr. Baugh's 
lot and while there came near being surrounded by a hundred 
or two Yanks. Came cross country to Ilillsboro, got good dinner 
and came back to F. by night. Yanks left about 11 o'clock. 
Found Smith in possession. Came out two miles and staid all 
night. 

Safurda!/.. 18/// — Came back to Camp. I went on forage. 

Sunday, l-ith — Got a good dinner at Mrs. T. 

Monday, 15th — I and Jeff Burleson went out and got a good 
dinner and my clothes. Came back and found the Company in 
Camp. To-night I, Eslinger and Jessy Johnson went out cross 
the hills to preaching. Parson Bunting officiated. I went doAvn 
with Eslinger and the girls to Mr. Page's, got some good apples, 
set till bed time and came to Camp. 

Tuesday, 16th — Remained in camp. 

Wednesday, nth — Saturday, 20th — During this time had sev- 
eral false alarms amounting to a run down the pike and back 
to Camp. Also regular turns on picket. 

Sunday, 21st — Go on the famous detail to M. after guns 
which cost me three days' roots. I went to see Miss Kate, spent 
about three minutes, had to make flying visits. Called to see 
Mr. Lane's family. Coming back to Camp, stopped to get supper 
and did not get to Camp till after night. 

Monday 22nd — Put on three days. A false alarm caused us 
to go to the front. 

Tuesday, 2'Srd — Went on picket. I was put on at the Widow 



Wednesday, 24//; — Was transferred to Black's picket at Holt's 
and stood to-night. 

Thursday, 23th — This morning just after being relieved the 
Yanks made a break on us. We were fired on just as we reached 
the Com., fought them all day, falling back about four miles 
(Christmas Day). Returned to Camp. 

Friday, 26th — Were aroused early this morning with tlic woi-d 
the Yankees are in Nolensville. Went up at doul)lc (niick and 
found them there. Fought them there all day until uiglit, 
falling back to our old Camp at Mr. Page's. Staid there to- 
night. Our loss, one piece of cannon and a few men — .McClure 
of Company E killed. 



December 27, 1862— January 4, 1863 5 

Saturdan, 27//(— Comiueiiced .skirmishing early, falling' l)ack 
slowlv; fought tlirongh Triune and Ijeyond Mr. Perkin.s. 
Rained on us all day. After paasing Mr. P's, we took up line 
of mareh, came up three miles and turned off for Murfrecsboro. 
I stopped and spent the night in a kitchen; came on Sunday 
28th and overtook the Regiment. We came in five miles of 
M. T^Iet the wagons, unloaded them and prepared to cook three 
days' rations, but were ordered to saddle up and get out to 
meet the Yankees. A. false alarm. Staid out until near mid- 
night. Came back to where we left the wagons l)ut they were 
not there. 

Monday, 29f/i— Went out this morning to the end of the 
Wilkerson pike. :\ret the Yankee.s and skirmished with them 
all day, falling back gradually. Their cavalry charged us once 
but paid dear for it. A number of prisoners were taken. We 
fell back to our infantry this evening. 

Tuesday, 30t/i— Rained to-day; all quiet till evening; fight 
then opened between the infantry and continued until dark. 

Wedticsdau, 31.sf— The great day of battle commenced at day- 
light and raged heavily all along the line until 3 o'clock, Yanlvs 
drove back four miles. Our Boys took in prisoners by the 
hundreds. Captured twelve cannon and during the day about 
2000 prisoners, 160 odd beeves, some wagons, etc. 

Thursday. Isl January, 1863— Went to La Vergne and pitched 
into their wagon train, captured and burned a good many 
wagons, 200 prisoners. 

Friday, 2 nci— Transferred to the right wing. Saw the fight 
this eve. Breckinridge had to fall back. Raining all the time. 
Saturday, 3r^/— Raining all day; sent out on a scout last night 
beyond Stone River to :\Ir. Black's. All (piiet. » 

Sunday, 4//)— This morn before day our Army couunenced to 
retreat. I left the Regiment on the Plaza in ^l. and. went out 
to the end of tlie Wilkerson pik(>. Got my clotliing and came 
across to the Salem pike, found a number of unparoled Yanks 
on my way. I met Gen'l Buford but he would not send back 
to parole them. I went on to town, went to see Miss Kate, took 
a bite to eat and bid them goodbye. Went up to Mr. Lane's 
and from there out to Col. Smith's Regiment and back to Col. 
Cox in town. lie promised to attend the Yanks. I then started 



6 DiARV OF I-'JMIKAIM S 1 1 KI ,|•.^• DoDD 

for the Command. Came out to Col. Lytle's, stopped, found 
Morton of the Battery tliere. I took supper there but did not 
l<n(i\v wiu'ic I was until the young ladies came down. Miss 
Mollic caiiit' in glad to see me, was then introduced to Miss 
]\lollie Turner and Miss Alice Hord, staid till 11 o'clock, time 
passed very pleasantly. Came on to Camp. 

Moiidaii, 7)/h — Fell hack to Old Fosterville, remained 6tli-l()th. 

SuiKldii, ]]f}i — Came out on a reconnoitering expedition, past 
Cdl. Lytle's. 1 sto]iped on return and saw jMisses ]Mollie and 
Alice. Miss IMolly T. had returned home. From this time until 
tile 27th we did uothinir l)\it picketing. I piruted a little on 
Duck River, spent a night or two with Mr. Stewart, took dinner 
twice at ]Mr. Wilhoit's and thus the time passed. On 27th came 
in to Camp and on 29th we were relieved by AVheeler's Brigade 
and with three days' rations started on a scout do^^Tl on Cum- 
berland, passed through S. and out on Eaglesville pike to E. 
Camped near the place 

Friday, SOth — Came thi-ough Triune and out to Franklin, 
got there 4 p. m., went out one and a half miles on Columbia 
pike arid camped. T and Oly Archer went out to Mr. Baugh's 
and toolv supper, staid till bed time and returned to Camp. 

Saturdaif, 'Slst — Details sent out to get all the provisions pos- 
sible and return by 12 o'clock. I went to town, but did not 
get my horse shod, met the command as T went out, coming in. 
AVent some ten or eleven miles and camped on creek on steep 
hillside. Rained all night. I and John Henry slept dry in my 
Yankee tent. iNIost Company got into stable and crib. 

Sundci!/, 1.<.7 Fehrudru — Rained all day, came within four miles 
of Charlotte. A very poor count i-y. I and Reuben Slaughter 
went out and staid all night with ]\lrs. Hood. Her husband had 
been conscripted. She lioiled a luiiii, baked some pies, filled our 
haversacks and started us on our way rejoicing. Came down 
to yir. Ventress. 

Monclajj, 2nd — Froze up and snowed to-day and night. 

Tiifsdai/, '.h-d — Started liefore day for Fort Donelson. Had 
to walk to keep fi-om freezing. Got to the Fort about three hours 
by sun. Our Regiment sent on Fort H. road to prevent rein- 
forcements from coming to 1). Reached our position and the 



February 3rd to Iotii, 1863 7 

fight coinmeneed and continued till dark. We cut the telegraph 
at all points, fight resulted in capture of about 100 prisoners, 
50 negroes and same number of horses, one twelve-pound brass 
rifled cannon. Gun Boats came up after dark and commenced 
shelling and we had to get. Came back to the Forge, two and a 
half miles, and camped. 

Wednesday, -ith — Came back to Ventress's on Creek. Snowed 
to-night — awful time. 

Thursday, 5th — Boys had grand snowball. Gave Col. Harrison 
a taste. Came up Columbia road, twenty miles, to little village 
of Wharton, took up (piarters. We went up creek three miles 
and back close to Headquarters and camped in road, making 
fires of the fence. I got fodder and we spread it on the snow 
and blankets on fodder; slept comfortably. 

Friday, 6th — Came to Vernon and camped. I went out and 
got some fodder and made beds, but did not get to enjoy it long. 
Bout 1 o'clock started and came to Duck River, built fires of 
the fence on river bank. Our sqviadron sent on scout eight 
miles, got back just after day. Found them swimming the 
horses and taking the rigging over in a boat flat. We were 
then sent on picket. A ford was found and the Brigade crossed 
over. Camped one mile from the river. Crossed near Center- 
ville. 

Saturday, 1th — Sunday, Sth — Came up to Columbia pike, 
ten miles from town. Once more in pretty country. Camped 
in woodland blue grass pasture. 

Monday, 9Ui — ^Moved up in five miles of Town. 

Tuesday.. 10th — Remained in Camp. 

Wednesday, 11th — Sent to Headquarters to draw aminunition 
as A. 0. S. Gen'l Wharton had a ball to-night. 

Thursday, 12th — Came up to within seven miles of Lewisburg. 

Friday, ISth — Came up to L. T went with Aaron Burleson 
to the fortune teller's; had our future destiny read to us; then 
to ]\rr. Lane's and listened to ]Miss Jennie paw ivory awhile. 
i\Iiss Mattie Long present. 

Saturday, 14//? — Remained quiet today. I and Nix went to 
see Jliss Jennie Lane. i\liss ]\Iattie still there. 

Sunday, loth — Moved camp out seven miles on Franklin jiike 



8 DlAFiV OF EPHRAni SnKI.BV DODD 

near Berlin. I went out to Mr. Sewell's and got dinner; piruted 
aronnd and came back to Camp with two dozen eggs. 

Monday, 16th — I went out piruting again to-day. Wagon.s 
got in to-day. I was put on Camp Guard ; roots for being out. 
Soon aflti' dark a detail was called for to go to Lewisburg; 'twas 
raining; I was detailed. Doak in command. Got there about 
11 o'clock, could find nobody, went into Court House and slept 
in the Bar. 

Tuesdaij, 11th — Received twenty-four boxes, saddles, bridles, 
halters, etc. Sent to Camp. Got a detail and put them all in 
a house and locked them up. AVe took charge of the Clerk's 
Office to sleep in, tied our horses in Court Yard and got our 
forage from the farmers around. Secured boarding at jMaj. 
Ilolden's, a clever gentleman and nice family; has one grown 
daughter. Miss Emma, a nice young lady. Remained here Wed- 
nesday, 18th — Monday, 23rd. During this time had nothing 
to do but write letters, visit ]\IY GIRL THAT PAWS IVORY, 
and inalce acquaintances. Among them Miss Lou Hill I prize 
highest. We had prayer meeting and church. I purchased four 
books and left them with ]\Iiss Emma; ^Mormon's at Home, Pil- 
grim's Progress, Bayard Taylor's Travels and Bible Union Dic- 
tionary. 

Tuesduy, 2-llJi — Just before leaving a couple of young lady 
equestrians passed out of town from JMr. Fisher's. I jumped 
on H. Emnoff's horse and overtook them, rode out a mile with 
them and turned off pike. If I should ever get back to L. I 
intend seeking them and make their acquaintance. After dinner 
we bid our kind friends adieu and put out, overtook the Com- 
mand about eleven miles from Shelbyville. 

Wednesday, 2bth — Came through Shelbyville to-day. Com- 
menced raining on us just as we got to town and continued. 
Came out on road to Beech Grove, ten miles, as wet as water. 
I and All)right went cross Wartrace Creek and staid all night 
with ^Ir. Fork — a nervy layout. 

Thursday, 26th — Still raining. AVent over to Mr. Hancock's, 
intending to cross AVartrace at a bridge above but gave it out 
as it was pouring down rain. Found Charley Pellam there 
at Mr. H's. 



Febriakv 27th — March 12Tn, 1863 9 

Friday, 21lh — All start tliis morning: for Camp, find the 
wagons close to Fairfield, the Regiment three miles further on. 
I was sent after corn over the highest mountain in the country 
as soon as I got in. 

SaturfJa!/, 28/// — .Moved Camp out near Beech Grove. I and 
Polk Kyle sent on t'oi-age, bought a stack of hay. Staid all night 
with Mr. Carlisle. 

Sundai/, 1st March — Get his wagon and hauled one load to 
Camp. Camp moved three miles further up the pike. I went 
up Creek and got ^Ir. Jonichin to start with his wagon. Went 
on top the mountain to get two more wagons and as I came back 
the Yanks ran oui' pickets in. I came near being caught by them. 
Came back down Creek and told J. He turned back. I and 
Polk then went on to Camp. After going to bed, all waked up 
and fell back to the other Camp. 

Monday, 2nd — I and Polk go out again. Get ^Ir. Ashley's 
wagon and ]\Ir. Carlisle's; send in two loads. Camp moved up 
pike again. Go into Camp. 

Tuesday, 3rd — Company went on scout. Unshod horses did 
not go, so 1 staid. 

Wednesday, -itJi — Company on picket. All gamblers and pi- 
rutes put on roots. I came under the latter head. 

Thursday,, oth — Still on picket. 

Friday, 6th — Relieved by K. and F. Raining all day and 
night. Sent on bread detail with Big Ugly, got back after night, 
raining. 

Saturday, 1th — I went out to Widow Ewell's to get some 
bread. Regiment relieved and went into Camp. I got there 
after night. 

Sunday, Stli — AVent on forage; got back in time for preaching. 

Monday, 9lh — Remained in Camp to-night. Rained. 

Tuesday, M)th — Could not get forage. 

Wednesday, llth — Went after forage. T and Reuben Slaugh- 
ter went together, did not find the Squadron, piruted aroimd 
and came back to Camp after night. 

Thursday:. V2th — Came (Regiment) down through Shelbyville 
to near Dolittle. I stopped at Lee Stewart's and got dinner. 
Came on to Camp. 



10 DiAHv OF Ephraim Siiklby Dodd 

Fridajj. ISth — Went on bread detail, saw Mrs. Billington at 
Widow Clardy's, her mother; took dinner with them. Met Miss 
Ore and Miss Fatten. 

Saturd>a!j, 14//j — Squadron went on scout. I went to shop 
and on bread detail. 

Sunday, 15tk — Remain in Camp. 

Monday; 16/A — Last night had a meeting of the Lodge; passed 
two and raised one ; made the acquaintance of Dr. Moore and 
lady, also Miss Stern, a niece of the Doctor's. 

Monday y l^th — Another meeting; one passed and two raised. 

Tuesday, Mth — I listened to some delightful music this morn- 
ing by ]\Iiss Stern, particularly the Texas Rangers, dedicated 
to Mrs. Gen'l Wharton. I started back to Camp but met the 
Regiment going out on picket. I fell in and went out and had 
to come back or go back and get my blankets. Came out half 
a mile from D. and camped. 

Wednesday, \Wi — Remained in Camp all day. I am very 
unwell. 

Thursday, l^th — Came on picket this morning. 

Friday, 20th — Our Squadron sent on post this morning. I 
joined Tom Taylor's mess; Jessy also. I and Tom went out to 
Mr. Elmore's and got some bac(m and milk. I stood to-night. 

Saturday. 21st — Brigade went out on scout. Oar Company 
supported battery, drove the Yanks back to their main camp 
and returned. 

Sunday, 22nd — Parson Bunting preached for us to-day. Noth- 
ing occured to change monotony of camp. Sick, and time drags 
slowly with me. 

Monday, 23r<i — A false alarm to-night, and rain. 

Tuesday, 2Wi — In Camp — quiet. 

Wednesdmj, 2i)th — Roll call five times a day, arms and horses 
inspected in the morning and dress parade in the evening is 
the order of the day. 

Thtirsdriy, 261 h — Drill two hours and dress parade. A docu- 
ment from Gov. Lubbock of Texas read, giving an account of 
presentation of flags of 4th and 5th Texas Infantry of Virginia 
to the State. Also one or two captured by our Regiment. 



March 27tii — Ai-Kii, Stu. 1868 11 

Fridaij, 21th — Monday, '30l.h — Nothing of importance occurred. 

Tuesdaij, 'i\si — Went on a scout out to Eaglesville. Met a 
Yankee scout just this side of E. We charged them and run 
them one and a half miles, capturing six and wounding several. 

Wed)icsday; ]st drn/ of April — Yanks brought up three or four 
thousand to E. and shelled our l^oys for some time. 

Thursdai/, 2nd — Went out beyond Maj. AVinn's, ])rought his 
family and negroas out, skirmished with the Yankees for some 
time, nothing serious. 

Friday, '3rd — I went out piruting this evening, came back to 
Camp and went in to Dr.-JNfoore's, sit till bed time. iNIiss Nannie 
made some music for me ; the evening passed pleasantly. 

Saturday, 4:th — The Grand race between AVharton and Har- 
rison came off this morning. All the Regiment that wished to 
went out. I remained in Camp. I and Reuben S. went over and 
got dinner at ]Mrs. Blanton's. Came back and the Regiment was 
getting ready to leave. I and Lonnie Logan came on to town 
and stopped at Dr. Moore's. Miss Nannie made some music for 
us. We bade them goodbye and overtook the Regiment. After 
we got to Camp, I took John Rector's horse and went up to ^Ir. 
Stewart's; found Dan at home. I took supper and staid all 
night; got some provisions fixed up and left before day. Came 
down to Camp and started soon after up country. 

Sunday, 5tli — I came by Dan's and got my clothing, overtook 
the command at town. Came up to Fairfield, crossed Bell 
Buckle Creek, went three or four miles and camped. 

Monday.. 6th — Came up near Jaeksboro and camped. 

Tuesday, 1th — Marched on way to Liberty far enough to con- 
sume the day when we turned back in getting to Camp; had 
to go down and up a pretty stceji mountain. The Yankees had 
possession of Liberty; drove ^Morgan's men out. We came back 
to Ballou's (Blues) and camped. Nothing for our horses to 
eat or ourselves. 

Wednesday, Sth — We came down to the forks of the pike two 
miles from Liberty. I and Reuben Stroud stopjied anil got 
supper and our horses fed. Found four coiiipjiiiies on picket, 
ours among the mnnber. 



12 Diary ok EiMiRMiVi Shklbv Dodd 

Thursdaij.. 9//< — \, Tom Taylor and Sti'oud came on to Alexan- 
dria and shod our horses. The Regiment passed on and left us. 
We eame on and got our dinner at Mr. Neal's living near Mrs. 
Grandstaff's and eame on to Camp at Spring Creek. 

Friday, lOlli — I was very siek last night and hardly able to 
ride this morning. Command left before day, got to Lebanon 
at daylight. Dr. Hill could not get the medicine for me but 
gave me a pass to return to the wagons. Near McMinnville I 
eame out to Mr. Bass's and staid all night. 

Saturday, 11th — I felt better this morning but very weak. 
Francis eame over this morning or evening. George Tracy was 
over in the morning, I believe. 

Sunday, ]2//( — Rained last night. Very' pleasant this morn- 
ing. I remained quiet to-day. Three or four soldiers came by ; 
found our Brigade had come back about Spring Creek. 

Monday, IStJi — My nuile taken scratches or something else 
badly, cannot ride her. Pretty day to-day. Aunt Nancy came 
over this evening. 

Tuesday, litJi — Rained last night again and cleared off this 
morning. I remained quiet to-day. Rained again to-night. 

Wednesday, 15th — 'Twas misty and damp this morning. I 
fixed up and went up to Mrs. Tarpley's, bidding the folks good- 
bye at Mr. Bass's. 1 found the way pretty easy. Killed a 
squirrel and took dinner with them. Staid an hour or two and 
started ; came on through Commerce and out two miles to Mr. 
Davis and staid all night. The mist finally turned to rain. 

Thursday, 16th — Cleared off' this morning. I remain with 
Mr. Davis to-da}- ; very pleasant day. 

Friday, \lth — Lieut. Davis and Emmet Trammel came by 
to-day and took dinner. Learned all about the Regiment from 
them. Camped at A. To-day was a beautiful day. I did not 
feel so well as 1 have for a: few days before. Fine time for 
farmers to work. 

Saturday, ISth — Ilermosa manana. Nothing unusual occurred 
this morning. I passed most of my time reading; still gaining 
in strength. 



Aprh. 19th to 21st, 1863 13 

SuiKhn/, ]9lh — Rainod last ni<j:lit ; Ix-autifiil spring morning 
tliis. RaiiuMl again all morning till iL* o'clock and cleared ofP. 

Mondaif, 20//* — I leave Mr. Davis this moi'iiiiig for Camp. 
Go ont by Kainey's. 1 got my eartridgo mended and came up 
to iMr.s. Grandstatf's and got my dinner. Came on to A.; met 
the Regiment just at Cam]), on their way to Lebanon. Our 
Squadron on picket. Sent after them. As soon as they came 
Regiment started. Got to Tjebanon about 11 o'clock. 'Twas 
two before the last of the colutiui ])assed. A train of wagons was 
along after the Corn's. We stopped on street and the train passed 
on. We picketed all the roads and remained. I slept on street, my 
head resting on curbstone for a pillow, but one blanket and got 
very cold before day. At daylight I went down and washed 
my mule off and warmed in blacksmith shop. Started back and 
Ferrill being drunk had me arrested. Kyle had me lay off my 
arms, but soon after Regiment all went to water and I was re- 
leased. I eat breakfast and went over to ]\Ir. Davis. Cousin 
Mee and Miss Fannie were at home. Mr. Davis down in town. 

Tuesday, 21st — I remained in town some two. hours. Went 
over to Camp, moved my nuile to where 'twould be safe in case 
of a move and went down ^o jNFrs. Jordon Stokes. I had a good 
long conversation with hei-. Got a paper from her and just as 
I was leaving Kyle came in. I loaned him the paper and went 
over to Cousin Mec's to take dinner. Hank Sullivan came in 
after dinner. Fox TramniQl and Jim Davis came for dinner. 
The Miss Thompsons, sisters, came in. I went into the parlor 
with Hank and was introduced to them. We then- had some 
music. An hour or two passed rapidly. AVe took leave. I 
promised to call again in the evening. I went over to Mrs. 
Stokes and after making addition left a letter which she kindly 
promi.sed to send to Nashville and mail for my Father. I got 
some more jiapers. She and Mrs. Aluirhead. her mother, tried 
to make a proselyte of me to Lincolnism or Unionism, as they 
would term it. Commenced raining. AVe left soon after I got 
back ; came out near Cherry Valley and camped. I was on picket ; 
the Reservi' in a barn; the \"i(lett(»s in a blacksmith shoji ; a good 
time of it. 



14 DiAKV OF Epiiraim Shelby Dodo 

W'( (hicsdo}!, 22nd — Rain ceased; bright aiul clear this morn- 
ing. We came on to Alexandria. I spent the evening working 
\\\\h my nmle's feet. After supper I went over to Lodge to 
assist in conferring some side degrees. I took 1001 ; staid till 
11 o'clock. Came back and went to bed. In a few minutes 
ordered to saddle nj). Yanks coming down on n.s like thousand 
of brick from Liberty, Snow Hill and all around. We marched 
all night. I and Jack and Bill Kyle got together. Couldn't keep 
up with Regiment. Stopped at daylight, got breakfast, fed 
horses and traveled on. Crossed river — nearly swimming. Came 
out three miles and camped. 

Thursday, 23rd — Fridaj;, 24f/i — Remain in camp this morn- 
ing, all day nothing of interest. 

Saturday, 2oth — Start at 3 o'clock for the wagons at Yankee- 
town. All horses unfit for duty sent there under Lieut. Gibson 
of 11th Texas. Regiment went to Rock Island. We came in 
fifteen miles of Sparta and camped. Men and lame horses 
straggled all along the road for miles.' I and ^McFarlan bunked 
together. 

Supdaif, 26th — Came on by Mr. England's; stopped on 
^lountain at jNIrs. Lowe's and got sotne bread baked and duck 
cooked ; took dinner and came on to Camp. Found the wagons 
camped near Yankeetown. 

Monday, 21th — Remained in Camp i\\\ morning; then started 
as John Rector had come in to see Cousin Jim Hawkins ; found 
he had moved camp. I went up to Mr. Johnston's and took 
dinner; saw Mr. Denton of IMike Salter's Company there. Sent 
note up to .limmy by one going iip. 

Tuesday, 2S{h — James Hawkins came up to-day to see me; 
staid all da.y with me. After he left, I and Frank McGuire went 
out to Mr. Bradley's and got supper. I got some bread. We 
then went and got twenty bundles fodder apiece and came back 
to Camp. 

Wednesday.. 2\)th — Remained in ("amp to-day; horses in- 
spected. John R. left me to go to the command. Albright 
bunked with me to-night. I went up with him to i\Ir. Williams 
and got supper. 



April :?()th— May 8th, 1863 lo 

Thurs(Uiji, 'iOth — Came np. I and Albright, to Brown's Mill. 
Ke^imental wagons ordered to Sparta. Rejiinient on detaehed 
duty; spent night with Cousin James Hawkins. 

Fridaij, '[st dan of Majf — Spent this day with .Tiiiimy. 

Saturdiuj, 2iid — Went to Granville. I rode Jinnny's gray 
horse and left my mule with his boy. Staid all night with Capt. 
Trousdale; had to paddle over the river in a canoe and swim 
our horses. 

Sunday, 3rd — T-went on by Duke's and to S(inire Bennett's 
on Buffalo Creek. Took dinner and remained till near night. 
Then crossed the pike at Hogg's Store and up to Billy West's 
and spent the night. 

Monday, -ith — Came on to Abel Smith's and to Widow Bal- 
lon 's and took dinner. From there to Womac Parker's on Dixon 
Creek, and .staid all night. 

Tuesday, 5^/)— Came to Gif ford's blacksmith shop. Albright 
had swapped horses, had two shoes put (m. got dinner and 
came on to Joe Carter's. A. had two more shoes put on. went on 
to Griggs and got supper. A. and ]Maze of Petticord's Company 
came on. We came four miles to Joe Sullivan's; left A. there. 
I and ]\raze went over to Jordan Carr's. Yanks all through here 
yesterday. 

Wednesday, 6th — Left Carr's and came u]) to John ^litcheH's. 
Came out to Stinson 's on to Giles Harris. From there to Scotts- 
ville and Gallatin. Ci'ossed at Coatstown, went on to John 
Rippy's, got supper and fed horses. Went on in rain to the 
Webb's, Maze's .uncle, found the Yanks so close by that we 
turned and went back to the hills. 

Thursday, 1th — Whil(> at John's, Green Crews ami John West 
came in. T went with them over to Mrs. Dinah Hiiffey. A. soon 
came, said Yanks were about. I staid all night. He went to 
John West's. Miss Polly is a fast one. 

Friday, Sth — T went to John MitchelTs to meet A.; was not 
there. T went on to John West; saw ^Miss Jane Wiley; came 
back to D's; found A. tiierc. I came back to John West, and 
on to Dots Belt's; staid all night; on to Green Crews this morn- 
ing. 



16 Diary of Epiiraim Shelby Dodd 

Sat iirddij, Ulh — Start this eveniiij;, six of ns, to Allen County, 
Ky. Went up in eisht miles of Scottsville ; stay all night or 
day in woods. To-night go by Ayres, Will Span's and old man 
Span's. At the latter place we got into hot water. Bush- 
whackers attacked us, killed my horse, stampeded all. I got 
separated from the rest, went, one mile, got two horses, eame 
on through to New How Monday, 11th, and on across to Coats- 
town. Find Will at Mrs. Iluffey's, shot. ^liss Sallie Key there 
on visit. I stay all night. 

Tuesday, VltJi — I and Will Rogers went over to Green's and 
Bass's; met by John ]\I. Green getting in. ^let Al- 
bright, went back to D's and stay all night. S. K. there. 

Wednesdai/. 13/// — I met some of ^Morgan's men; Harper with 
them. I joined them and went cros.s railroad at JMitchellville 
over to Wickwire's, eight miles from railroad. Stopped, at Mr. 
Simpson's and got breakfast. Miss Sue Offutt, Miss Jimmy 
Wickwire there. After breakfast went to the woocLs and staid 
all day. 

TJiurxday, \Alh — This evening we all went in and got supper 
then down to Mr. Wickwire's and got supper and the supper 
is a mistake; danced nntil 12 o'clock. I and ^liss Jimmy danced 
two sets. I enjoyed it finely, then bid them adieu and came out 
to Pete Laurence's by daylight. Birch swapped horses on the 
way. Pete 's sister brought us provisions. 

Friday, \Tylh — To-night stopped to see two Lincolnites; got 
six shooter from one, single barrel from the other; stopped 
at Squire Henry's; got some cherry bounce; played off Yankee 
on him ; got all the information we wanted and went on to 
Wickwire's; fed at Mr. Simpson's; girls got up, chatted them 
awhile. I, IIari)er and Gibson then left the crowd, crossed the 
railroad and bought two horses and came on to Bracken's and 
got breakfast. From there to Ashlock's and got dinner. Came 
cross the pike and I left thein, went by Bass's and on to Crews 
and staid all night. 

Saturday, 16^/t — Sunday, 11 th — Came to jMrs. Huffey's, found 
Albright. 

Monday, 18/// — Tuesday, 19/// — Yesterday went to Tompson's 
Shop ; not at home. This morning to Hughes ; gone to Gallatin. 



May IOtii to 21tu, ISGl] 17 

Came by Jordan Carr's, got dinner and on to ^Toss's. Found 
Jim Berryman there. Harper came soon. Went down to Sulli- 
van's, fed and I left. Went on to John Stewart's, staid all night. 

Wednesday, 20th — Down to Hughes, got my horse .shod, came 
back, and nine of us started. Came up near Epperson Springs, 
found the Yanks were there and at Scottsville too strong for us. 
Got supper at Stinson's, a regular tory. Tjanib swapped horses 
with him. Then started for New Row. Came across to Bracken's, 
got breakfast, three of the boys had left us. 

Thursdai), 21st — We came this evening out to where the others 
were; Yanks in New Row; so we could not go there. Came to 
Widow Hodge's. Five of boys went on; two slept in bushes; 
I and Jim Berryman slept in house. 

Friday.. 22nd — Came cross the pike to Meadows, fed our horses. 
I, Jim and Lamb started back to Kentucky. We came cro.ss pike 
to Mr. Hodges and got supper, then cross railroad and out 
through IMitehellville to Norris ten miles from railroad: staid all 
day and to-night. 

Saturdaif, 2'^rd — Went down, to Finche's and got a horse. ]\Ir. 
Finch came out with us some distance. Came back to Norris ; 
staid all night ; nothing to eat. 

Sunday.. 2-ifJi — To-night went down near Redman's; run into 
Yankee pickets, and started back. Came cross railroad and out 
to Sherwin's, got breakfast and on to Boss iMeadows. From 
there to Hughe's Shoj) ; got two shoes and nails made. Went 
down to Essick's and got supi)er and on toji ^fountain and staid 
all night. 

M(>)ida]i. 2^)111 — Tucsfkiy, 26th — This got my mare shod, 

went on, found A. at Henry ]\fitcheirs came back to Hardy 
Silver's, found the boys and started back to the railroad to get 
some boots. Took .sui)i)('i- with .Mi', llodiic and on lo ixodiniore's; 
had not the boots; then came back cross i)ik('. 1 went with 
Berryman to shoj) ; Hughes not there. T left him, came on to 
Jack Stewart's. 1, Albright and Lamb started back for Gran- 
ville this evening; cajue on to Griggs, got supper. From there 
to Staffords and staid all night. 

Wednesday, 21th — Met Thompson's and Stalc\ 's men. 



18 DiAKV OF ElMlRAI.M SlIKI.BV DoDD 

TInirsday, 28th — Came to Montgomery's. Lamb left us. We 
came on to AVidow Ballon 's. Yanks close at hand. We staid 
in bushes to-night. 

Friday, 29th — AVcnt to Dixon Springs to-day to get a Yankee 
saddle; liad to wait until the two Regiments of Yankee cavalry 
and train passed out. We then went in, I and Ward. I went 
up to "Sir. Alexander's; Miss ]\Iollie knew me, Miss Nannie did 
not. 1 took supper and staid till 10 or 11 o'clock and left, ("ame 
back to Mrs. Ballon \s. 

Satttrdaij, 30th — Came to i\lr. Beasley's and staid all night. 

Siuidai/, 'Slst — iNlet up with Parker as Lieut. Brown. I got 
a horse for ^Mason Rector. Came on to Granville, found Company 
D there, and that we were published as deserters. Came out 
near Cookville to-night. 

Monday, 1st day of June — Came to Mrs. Brown's, took break- 
fast, got our clothing and came on to Camp. Camp moved this 
evening. Proceedings stopped until Kyle comes up. Our 
names sent with others to be published in Houston Telegraph. 
Came out to-night to pasture and turned in. 

Tuesday, 2nd — Came in to Camp, find that my name has been 
sent on with others to be published as a deserter. 

Wednesday, 3rd — Ordered to remain in Camp. 

Thursday, Ath — Wm. Hamby got in from Austin, Texas; staid 
all night with me. We went out to a private house and spent 
the night. 

Friday, oth — AVilliam left me this morning. To-night I and 
Eeuben went out to JMr. Mills and staid. 

Saturday, 6th — Lieut. Black* took all men able for duty and 
started to Sligo this morning. To-night the Company got in 
from G. 

Sunelay, 7^//— Started for left wing, went to Sparta, halted 
there hour or two ; came on to Cany Fork and camped. 

Monday, Sth — Came to McMinnville this morn. Ordered 
Regiment to Hoover's Gap to picket; wagons to Manchester. I 
w^ent to the wagons to get a saddle, stopped with Dave Nunn, 
staid all Tuesday, 9th. Came to camp, rigged my tree and 



JuxK IOtii T(» 27tii, lS(i:^ 19 

Wednesday, lOtli, caiiu' to the eoinniand. caiiiix-d near Beech 
Grove on pike. 

Tlmrsda]), llth — Came on picket. 

Fridaij, V2th — On picket duty; camped at our ohl stand. 

Saturday, VMh — Company jjo on picket. 

Sundai/.. 14//t — I and Capt. Hill go out after i)rovi.sions, stop 
at ^Ir. Mankin's, Prayters, Jacob's, ^lankin's and return. 

Monday, lotJi — I took dinner to-day with 'Sir. Guess. Relieved 
this evening. Five of us went on scout ; got supper at ]\Ir. ]Man- 
kin's. I left my valise at Mr. Guess's. I forgot to note leaving 
undershirt and pair of drawers at >Mr. Brown's on Palling 
Water. 

Tuesday, 16//* — Regiment relieved and came into camp. 

Wednesday, Mth — Di-ill inoi-niiig and cvcninti- inspection. 
Received two letters, one from Cousin .lennie, one fi-om Tom 
Maxwell. 

Thursday, 18th — Review of Brigade by Gen'l Hardee. 

Friday.. 19//( — Regiment came to Fairfield and fri)iii Hiere to 
Bell Buckle and camped. I went out to ^I'r. Suggs anil got some 
bread baked and returned. 

Saturday, 20th — Remained iu camp to-day. Thi-ee of the Ar- 
kansas Post boys came up from Wartrace and among the num- 
ber was Doc. Norwood. Staid with us to-night. 

Sunday, 21st — Came over to Old Fosterville to picket. 

Monday, 22nd — All quiet. 

Tuesday, 2'ird — Wednesday, 24fh — Company on picket. T 
came back to attend a court nuirtial ; staid all night in Camp. 

Thursday, 25/// — Rained all day. Yanks made a general at- 
tack on our pickets. I went out to the Company about 11 a. m. ; 
fell back to Ransom's; went over to Bell Ruckle; traveled all 
night. Came on to Fairfield; staid a short time and came on 
back to Ransom's and camped. 

Fridai/, 26tli — Saturday, 2Hh — Came to Bell Buckle this 
morning and from there to Wartrace, our infantry falling back 
to Tullahoma. Went a short distance beyond Warti-ace; llth 
Texas and 4th Georgia skirmished with "them a littK>; a few 
wotuuled. We came to Duck River and camped. 



20 Diary of Epiiraim Shelby Dodd 

Sundai/.. 2Sth — Came on to-day to Tullaboma; continues to rain 
night and day. I saw James Maxwell, Billy Dunson, Julius Len- 
sing and Doc. Norwood. 

Monday, 29th — I was detailed to go to the shop; came on to 
town, found Stroud and came out five miles to shop. Still 
raining. We spend the night at the shop. 

Tucsdaij, 'MVIi — Our work finished and we return to Camp at 
Tullahoma. Regiment came in soon after. I got a letter from 
Miss S. A. Jourdan. I went over to the Texas Brigade, saw 
Doe. Norwood, G-eorge Holman, George Jourdan, Frank Wilkes 
and Billy Dun.son. Came back and our Regiment moved out 
on the right and camped. I went on a scout with Black to Hills- 
boro; went within one mile and came back; no Yanks there. 
Traveled all day or I should have said all night. Got back and 
found the Army on the retreat. 

Wednesdlai/.. July 1st — Army in full retreat. Came on to 
Alisony bout 11 o'clock. While on the move from that point 
my mare fell and broke her left foreleg just below the knee. 
John Henry was left with me. We came on short distance and 
went to sleep. I left my mare where the accident happened. 

Tlinvsdcuj, Jul If 2nd — Came on to Deckerd this morning. 
From there took wrong road and came up Cumberland Mountain 
to the University with Hardee's Corps. Found there that we 
had taken the wrong road. John went down to the house to get 
some information and I lost him. I came down to the railroad 
and staid all night. Polk's Corps crossing all night. 

Friday, '3rd — I waited until our wagons came up and ]>ut my 
luggage on them and rolled on. Came to foot of ^Mountain to- 
night. 

Saturday, -ith — Came down to Battle Creek from head of 
Sweden's Cove; portion of Polk's Corps crossed j^ontoon at 
mouth of Battle Creek and cross the river. We came ■ on to 
Bridgeport. Crossed this evening. Met Bob Ship here. 

Sunday, 5th — Came up to the foot of the mountains and 
camped. 

Monday, 6th — Start cross the mountains. Came up, I and 
Paul Watkins, to Nicka Jack, staid all night with IMrs. Porter. 



July 7tii — ArorsT r)TH, 1863 21 

Tuesdmj.. 1th — Came cross the mountain tlirough Hamburg, 
got dinner there at Mrs. Reeves and came on to Camp within 
one and a lialf miles of Trenton. 
Wednesday, ^th — Remain in camp. 

Thursday, 9fh — Saturday, llth — All (luict. i'ut on one 
month's roots for the Kentucky trip; read at dress parade yes- 
terday evening; commenced this morning. 

Sundait, 12th — Start this morning for Rome, Ga. Came on 
top Lookout iM'ountain; rained to-night. 

Monday, l-^fh — Came on through Lafayette and six miles 
beyond. I and Hob Ship, Tom Peterson and .Jim ^McGuire 
stayed all night about one mile from Camp. Rained very 
hard for a while. jNIusic to-night. 

Tuesday, 14#/i — Came to within fifteen miles of Rome, passed 
through Chanyville. 

Wednesday.. liSth — Came to Rome; pretty ])lace for the Coun- 
try. Camped two miles from town and spent all day in town. 
Thursday, l^th — Remain in camp all day. 
Friday, llth — All quiet in Camp. Brigade officers had a ball 
in town last night. 

Saturday, ISfli — jMoved camp down on Silver Creek four miles 
from town. 

Sunday, Idtit — Friday, 24:th — Usual routine of camp duty. A 
protracted meeting going on, conducted by Parson Bunting and 
others, commenced Sunday. I am on duty every other day 
Weather warm and dry. 

Saturday, 2i)fh, to 1st day of Aiiyust — All ([uict : u.sual routine 
of camp duty. Two days since, wliile out on forage, I saw ]\Iiss 
Anna Ransom at Mrs. (iarrctt's — a givat pleasure to meet 
with them. 

'Ard, Atb, Wednvsday, i)th — Tiie barbecue and presentation of 
the horse to Gen'l Wharton came off to-day. Jno. Rei-tor made the 
presentation speech. Gen'l W. replied. Harrison made a few 
remarks; diiuier was then announced. After dinner Billy' 
Sayers and Adams of Company C maile speeches. Everything 
passed off finely; quite an array of beauty present. The Misses 
R. and (J. pi-eseiit. I paid my respects to them. 



22 Diary op Kimiraim Smklhv Dodd 

Thiirsdai/, (ilk, to Fridai/. 14/A— Nothing l)ut roll call, in- 
spection, dress parades and drill. AVe are living high on peach 
pie. 1 have made a few acquaintances, hut don't find the hospi- 
tality that we did in Tennessee. I was over at Mir. Bryant's 
to-day. Can't say that 1 enjoyed it very highly. 

I pass from 14th to 20th. Nothing stirring. Oh ! yes, the 
wedding — Charley Littlefield to Aliss MoUie Maddry, by the 
Rev. Air. or Lieut. Simpson of Company B alias Sim Brnce of 
Company E. ]\Iy time passes very pleasantly. 

25th — Went to town to-day. Passed the day pleasantly ; took 

dinner with Rome. Saw Cousin JMollie; came out to Mr. 

Mobley 's ; took supper. Met with Col. Cox, IMr. Barrick of 
Glasgow, Ky., and Mr. John.son and Lady of Nashville. Miss 
Mobley was very sociable. I sit till bedtime. Time passed 
pleasantly. Now, that we are acquainted, have become attached 
to the folks, we have to leave ; always the case. I made the 
acquaintance of Miss Maggie Ezzell, Miss jNlattie Sommers, Miss 
Fannie Summers and Aliss Alollie Robert and enjoyed myself 
with them finely. 

Friday.. 2Sth — "We bid our friends adieu and came out eight 
miles above Rome. I got my hunting shirt as I passed through 
town, cost me sixty-eight dollars. 

Saturday — Remained in camp. 

Simday, SOtJi — Monday; Slsi — Moved four miles this evening. 
I and Jim McGuire went out and spent the night with Mr. 
Alnderson. 

Tuesday, 1st — Came on to-day to INFrs. Partain's where we 
stopped as we went down ; found Mr. Sewell there still mending 
clocks; the girls looking charming. Staid all night. Music and 
mirth. 

Wednesday, 2nd September — Came on to Lafayette, camp one 
mile from town. Had a meeting of the Lodge this evening; 
1 attended. 

Thursday, 'Srd — Remained here to-day; me\ again this evening 
at the Lodge in town. 

Friday, 4th — Started for Alpine; came out twelve miles and 
camped. 



September oth to 20Tn, 1863 23 

Saturdai/.. Tiih — Reached Alpine, left one wagon to the Regi- 
ment, and with the rest the dismounted men started for Rome. 
Came eight miles and camped. 

Sunday, 6th — A number of us started at two o'clock this morn- 
ing and came on twelve miles and got breakfast. I and Oly 
Archer turned off at Coosyville and came l)y ]\Iiss Ransom's. 
Miss Anna and ^liss Fannie were there, also ^Nlr. and iNIrs. Settle 
of Murfreesboro. AVe spent the day with them and came to 
camp in the evening. 

Monday, 1th — Camped at Col. Shorter 's; one brigade of in- 
fantry near us. 

Tuesday, Stli—A\\ quiet. I went off over to John's last night, 
but big Cousin was not there. 

Wednesday; 9th — Quiet to-day. 

Thursday, lOlh—l went over to Whitehead's to get some raw 
hide to cover my saddle. I stopped at ^Nlr. Alobley's and took 
dinner, chatted Miss Metta a while and went over to the Mill 
and on to the tan yard and back to the Mill ; found Dr. Neely 
there. I staid till bout 10 o'clock and came back to Camp. 
Time passed pleasantly, "on Angels' wings," while with Miss 
Mag. 

Friday. 11//' — Remained in camp. 

Saturday, Vlth — T played off on an old Georgian as Captain 
or with Captain's imiform, got a buggy that a private could 
not have reached with a twenty foot pole. I and Oly Archer 
rode out in it to INIr. Ransom's. Took Air. Jackson along with 
us. We took supper and sit till bedtime. Time passed delight- 
fully. Pleasant drive back to camp. 

Sunday.. \Wi — jNFoved eight miles from Rome out on the 
Kingston road to where the 4th Tennessee camped near a mill 
on the river. 

M<ni<lay, 14/A — Remained in camp all day. 

Tuesday, 15th — Sunday, 20//i^During this time I made the 
aci|uain1aiice of Aliss Mary Reece, Miss Mary Davis and ^liss 
Eugenic Holt. I spent all my leisure time visiting them. Very 
nice ladies indeed. 



24 DiAKV OK HlMIUAIM SlfELBY DoDD 

Monddij, l^l.s/ — 1 and Mr. Xolin went np to the Tanyard this 
evening and t(M^k Kiij)i)er and sit till 10 o'elock. ]\[iss E. was 
looking very nice indeed. 

Tuesday — Reading ]\ly stories of Court of London. 

Wednesday, 23/7/ — Reading Tempest and Sunshine. Went up 
to see Miss E. to-night. I spent a few hours at Mr. Davis; 
Miss ]\rollie and Cousin looking charming. 

Thursday, 24,th — Start this morning for Tunnel Hill. Came 
by T., left G. T. McGehee, got my boots $75. Bid Miss E. good- 
bye and in company wnth Capt. Hill and Wm. Nicholson came 
on eight miles and staid all night at INIr. Brownlee's. 

Friday.. 25th — Passed through Calhoun this morning, twenty- 
one miles to Dalton. Came on through D. to Tunnel Hill, 
seven miles from D. 

Saturday, 26th — Came on to Ringgold and six miles beyond 
to Chickamauga. When Ave got in three miles of R. we struck 
the main Yankee line of invasion ; from there on the country 
is destroyed — fencing burned, everything eat up and destroyed. 

Sunday, 27th — We start up the railroad this morning but turn 
back and camp on Chickamauga. Here we remain. 

Monday 28th — October 1st, Thursday — Rain last night and 
still continuing; truly refreshing. First we've had for an age. 
All quiet in front. Well, I've missed being in one battle, 
that of Chickamauga. 

October 2nd — Continued to rain all day. 

Srd, Saturday — Moved camp this morning to Cherokee Springs 
one and one-half miles from Ringgold. Cousin Jimmy Hawkins 
met me and went to camp with me. 

Sunday, Uh — I, Jim ^NIcGuire and Jimmy went out beyond 
Catoosa Springs and staid all night. A mistake. Saturday 
Eve. 

Sunday, Wt — Took breakfast at ]\Ir. INFaston's this morning. 
Came by the Springs and sto])ped to see ^fiss Kate Shamblin. 
On to camp.. 

Monday, 5th — Remained in Camp. 

Tuesday, 6th — I and Jimmy went out to the Springs; spent 
the night at Widow Conner's. 



Octobp:r Ttii to 2r)Tii. 1863 25 

Wednrsduy, Itli — PinittHl around generally. I left Jimmy at 
Mr. Smith's and went over to see Miss Kate. 

TJiursdaij, Sfh — I caiiie into ('amp thi.s iiii>i'iiing, was appointed 
Adjutant of the Preps! Preps! 

Frid^lf^ 9ih — Jimmy eame in this niornin<j but did not stay 
long; was to be back in the evening. 

Saturdaij, M)fli — Jimmy did not eome. 

Sundaif, 11/// — T went out to see ^liss Kate this morning, but 
heard nothing of Jim. AVent by Mr. Sliamblin's. .Miss Eva and 
]\Iiss Nannie were at home; two of the prettiest girls I've seen in 
Georgia. I went over to Mr. Smith's and heard of Jimmy; had 
gone on to Cami). 1 went back to Cam]) and found him there. 

Mondaij, \2tli — I went out this evening and staid all night 
with ^Ir. Cannon, at ]\rr. Smith's. 

Tuesdaij, VStJi — I started by daylight thi.s morning and eame 
to Cam]). Raining. 

Wednesdaif. 14//; — Tlmrsdaji, A'^tli — Xothing but rain, night 
and day. 

Fridar), M^th — Suiiddn, '[Sth — I went out to Catoosa Springs 
and to Air. Sliamblin's and I)aek to Camp. 

Monday, 19th — Wednesday, 21st. 

Thursday, 22nd — This morning we start for Kingston. I came 
on in advance of the train to Tunnel Ilill, saw all the boys and 
called around to see Aliss Kate and Miss Nannie. They had 
moved down a few days ago. AVe came on four miles below 
Dalton and staid all night, [ and Paul, Jim. 

Friday, 2'^rd — Came on tlu'ough to Calhoun and six miles 
below and staid all night. Kaining all day and night. 

Saturday, 2-lfh — Came to Adairsville. Camj> three miles from 
the village. To-night I went to Mi-. Green's, one mile from 
A. with AVin. Campbell. Left my horse and went to town and 
took 10 o'clock train and went to Kingston. T staid but a few 
minutes; did not find wli.it 1 went after. Came u]) at \2 
o'clock to A., went out to Mr. (Jreen's and staid all night. 

Sunday, 2'tlh — Went to town this morning and sent a lettei* 
to Tunnel Hill by Harper to Miss Nannie. 



26 DiARV OF El'IIRAlAI SlIELBY DoDD 

Monday, 26th — Wednesdm/^ 28th — Hothing worthy of note. 

TJiursdaij, 291 Ji — I went down to onr old staini)ing ground 
to-day. I stopped to see Miss Eugenie Holt; had just returned 
from a visit to Marietta and was looking very pretty; stopped 
but a sliort time. Went on to Mr. Davis's; nobody at home 
but IMiss MoUie. Crossed the River at Freeman's Ferry and 
went to Mr. Somers. Miss Maggie's husband at home. I staid 
all night. ]\liss Mattie came down this morning. I staid till 
bout 10 o'clock. 

Friday, SOth — I came back to Mr. Davis ; Mrs. D. and husband 
just starting to Rome. I took dinner and left. Came in to Mr. 
Green's, near Adairsville, and staid till bedtime and came to 
Camp. 

Saturday, 31st — Remain in camp. 

Sunday^ 1st November — I went to to^^^l and mailed some 
letters, and out to Mr. Mooney's, the tanner, and got dinner; 
came by Mr. Green's, stopped awhile and on to Camp. 

Monday, 2nd — Remain in Camp all day. 

Tuesday, Srd — Friday, 6th — Start this morning I and James 
Pickle down the country, stopped at Mr. Gillam's and took 
dinner. From there to Mr. Kit Dodd's and staid all night. 

Saturday, 1th — I met ]\Ir. Gore there, promised to write to 
Cousin Serena. Came on to Mr. Somer's and then to Van Wert; 
staid with Col. Jones to-night ; met Mr. Jones and Lady, Mrs. 
Cullin and ]\liss Lou, daughter of the Colonel. Had a candy 
pulling. 

Sunday, 8th — Came or went to Mr. Carmichael's and back to 
Van AVert before we found him. Jim left his leather with him 
and we came on to Capt. Wimberly's and staid all night. 

Monday, 9th — Came in to Cedar Town this morning. Stay 
all night at the Hotel, ten dollars apiece. Sold some tobacco 
to him. 

Tuesday, 10th — Came out with Clan Blakemore and Fuget to 
Mr. Thomas. I spent the night at John Hatchers. Miss Jane 
Simpson was there to-night. James Pickel was not with me;, 
the other bovs went back to town. 



November 11tii to 24tii. ISH:? 27 

Wedncsdaij, lltli — I spent the day and night at Mr. Hatchers. 

" Thursday, 12th — Went over to Mv. Thomas'. I made a girtli 
for him. From there to Miss Kate Carter's. Mr. Shirry and two 
other gents came in, gentlemanly, merry. 

Friday, IStli — I came over to Mr. Hatcher's. 

Saturday, 14/// — Left Mr. Hatcher's and came np to Cave 
Spring, saw Jenkins and Capt. Hooks. Mart Lee was there bnt 
I did not get to see him. Came on to Dr. Richardson's near 
Cedar Town and staid all night, a very fine family indeed. 
Has one grown dtiughter. .Met Col. Bryant, a Kentncky refugee. 

Sunday, lotJi — Came on to Van AVert. Jim stopped at Car- 
miehael's and got his boots. Came on to Air. Peck's and to Mr. 
Somers ; stopped and spent Alonday. 

Novcmher, 16th — Came this evening to Adairsville ; found 
our Train gone to Charleston. Slept on the ground. 

Tuesday, 17th — AVent to Grandpaps this morning and got 
breakfast. Jim stopped at Air. AIcDow's to see Reuben Stround. 
Came on and we started from Grandpaps. Came up to Air. 
Curtis and turned off to the right. Came up to Silvacoa and 
camped; got corn from a field. 

Wednesday, IStJi — Got breakfast, paid two dollars for it and 
crossed the River. Came on to Spring Place, got heel plates 
put on. Came out seven miles and staid all night. Camped. 

Thursday, 19/// — Came on to-day to Cliarlestown and six 
miles above to Air. Calloway's and staid all night. 

Friday, 20th — Came on through Athens, Sweetwater and Piiil- 
adelphia ; came out one and one-half miles and took supper at a 
very nice place — Virginians. Alet AI'cAIahon of Company [I. T 
and Jim came on to Camp near Loi/(don. 

Saturday, 2\sl — lim went to the Com. this morning 1 had 
an offer for my mule this eve and sold him. 

Sunday, 22nd — AVe remained in Camjv 

Mo)iday, 23rd — Aloved Camp to within two miles of Lrnoir 
on Little Tennessee River. I went out to .Mr. \'assey"s; let my 
cioth.ing. 

Tucsdiuy, 241 h — .Ml (|iiiet in Camp. Firing at Kiiiii-stnu. 
Wheeler and Wildei-. 



28 Diary of Kpiiraim Siielhy Dodd 

Wednesdaij, 2^)th — Tlmrsdaij, 2{itli — Went to a dance io-jiii;ht. 
I only danced two sets. Dr. Bol) was willi me. Came back 
about one o'clock. 

Friday, 21th — Kemained in Camp all day. 

Saturdajj, 2Sth — Started this morning on a scout through 
Blunt — Charley Mason, John Kelison, Jessy Kirkland. ]Met up 
with Charley Pelham and Sam Piper. 

Kirkendol of Company G was with us. Found Steve Gallagher 
and Jim with Mr. Upton. Jim was wounded; Steve came on 
with us. We crossed the River at Niles' Ferry and staid all 
night at Mr. Norwood's. 

Sundaij, 29tJ> — We went up the road two or three miles and 
found all the troopers leaving Blunt. We turned and came 
back to Mr. Norwood 's and took dinner and came cross the River 
to Mr. Curtis and staid all night. 

Mondaij, SOth — Charley Pelham came down this morning and 
told the Yanks were upon us and to fall back to Mr. Upton's. 
Kirk was pretty merry. Went down to Hawkins to get Sam 
Piper and Kirkland. We came up to Upton's, met IMaj. Stevens, 
took dinner and sent after whiskey. Upton called up his negroes 
and gave them some whiskey and commenced the preparation 
for the move. I staid with them until they started. Four of 
us went to Cunningham's and staid all night. 

Tuesday, 1st December — We came to Mr. White's this morning 
and there left Mr. Upton and started for the Telico Plains, I, 
IVIason and Keliscm. Met Kirkland, Piper and Kirkendol; then 
came up to ]\lcDermot's and staid all night. 

Wednesday, 2nd — I and Kirk went to Cagle's and got his 
horses. I paid 200 to boot. Met at Mc D's. Four of us staid 
at Mr. Hunt's. 

Thursday, 3rd — I came over to the shop and had my horse 
shod, and I and Kirk came on to Carmichael's. Found Pete 
Kendall there. The other Boys had gone. Met Bulger Peoples. 
Went on to Hawkins; found all the Boys there; staid all night. 

Friday, ^th — Started for Motley Ford. Heard the Yanks 
were there and started for Carmichael's. Came on five or six 
miles and met up with Dick Tainter of Scott's Louisiana Regi- 



December 4th to 7th. 1863 29 

ment. Came on to C. and tlierc divided; Sam J'ipor going to 
Mr. Shaw's with me and T. Had not heen there long till the other 
boys came on. We got ready to start, and they refused and 
Sam piper with them. I and Tainter then left them and came 
on to Mr. Donohiie's and staid all night. I have never taken 
such i\ pirute before nor never will again. 

Snturdaij, 5//?— Left Mr. Donohue's with Diek Tainter and 
came down to iMr. Carr's on the River, five miles above the 
mouth of Citico. Pound them all gone up the River for North 
Carolina. Dick did not want to go to Blunt. AA^e went across 
the River to Bright 's and found several men, Briscow of Com- 
pany K among them. AVe staid all night. 

Suudaif, 6th — We started for Ilolloway's with two of the Boys. 
AA^e got there. Dick would go no further. I\Iint and Drew and 
IMeroney all turned gack. I, Hugh Singleton and Briscow 
started for L. Came out to Old Ala.jor Pugh's and found the 
A^anks had prowled him of beehives and everything. Then came 
on cross Alotley Ferry road and through a camp they had just 
left. Some Yankees on the ground laying up fences with the 
negroes. AVe came on cross Morgantown Road, found all the 
roads traveled by them. Came on to Capt. Dyer's, fed our horses 
and got supper and on to within one mile of Louisville. Stopped 
at Old Man Dyer's; found the Yanks in large force near him. 
Stopped, and fed and walked down to within three hundred 
yards of their camp fires. Could not get to the Planters Hotel. 
Came back; six of our boys were laying out in the woods near 
Afr. D's. AA^e fed and slept in the barn till nearly day. Old 
Man woke us up, found two of the men were Carlton and 
Patton of Company F; others were Alorgan Alen. All came 
out to a thicket and spent the day. 

Mouday, 1th — Came in this evening to Air. Dyer's, found the 
A^inkees all gone, got supper and went down to the Planters, 
spent two or three hours. Gardner sold ihcin a horse. I must 
take Ali.ss Kate one. Came out to-night to Mr. Dyer's, warmed 
and came on to Lige Jim Henry's. I passed as a A^mkcc with 
Airs. Ilcni-y. Came on to Air. Holloway's and tit .Mr. I?e&s*s and 
got dinner. 



30 DiAKY OF Epiiraim SnKi.in- DODD 

Tticsddu, SUi — Came .011 to Mr. IJright's and staid all night; 
rained all day. 

Wcdiiesdnij, 9ih — All quiet to-day. Didn't move. 

Thursiknj, 10th — AVe start for Longstreet for or via Sevier. 
Gave it out and started for the vicinity of Bess' Mill. Went 
to see Mr. Jo Gray, a Lieut, in the Yankee Army. He was not 
at home; took two horses and a negro. Came on to McCully's 
and got two of them, two guns and one pistol, two horses. Came 
on to Bess' but found them all gone, then came gack to Mr. 
Bright 's. 

Friday, iltJi — Started this evening for Sevier, got as far as 
Little River at Mv. jMcClane's and turn ])aek. Two Yanks rode 
right through ns. Came on by day near j\Iont Vale Spring. 
Stopped and got breakfast. Saw two Bushwhackers but could 
not catch them. Alet ^Ir. King at the Springs. Came on over 
to Mr. Gomly's. 

Satiirday, 12//t — I staid all night at Mr. Cutchberson's. 

Su)(d(nj, ^'Alh — All started to-night for Louisville. Rained 
and we sei)arated ; I, Smith and Alexander leaving the crowd 
at Mr. Everett's. We stopped at Mr. Best's and staid all night 
and all day. 

Monday, lUh — Start to-night for Sevier; ran into the Yanks 
at Maryville; my saddle turned; I lost my horse. The Boys 
abandoned theirs and we made our escape on foot. AVorked our 
way out to AlcClaine's on Little River .iust at daylight, but he 
would have nothing to do with ns ; could get no assistance from 
him. Came down the River and lay out in a little mot of timber. 

Tuesday, l^itJi — Came to Iliram Bogle's, erossed the Little 
River at Finley's, the Sheriff of the County. Got to Bogle's 
and got a snack to eat. Mr. Bogle had taken the oath and 
would give me no information, only directions to Tim Chandler's. 

Tuesday, 16th^ — Came on to Chandler's, got lost on the road 
and had to stop and inquire at a house (John Robinson's). He 
told me about the Home Guards being in the neighborhood. I 
or Me went on until we got to the house where they were camped 



iThere is confusion of days and dates from "Tuesday, 16th" to 
"Thursday, 2r,th;" for the 16th is Wednesday, the 17th is Thursday, 
etc. 



Dece.mber IfiTn TO i^O'i'ii, 18U;i 31 

or near it. The road forked and 1 went up to inquire about 
the road. Found 'twas not a dwelling and saw the HJome Guards 
through the window. Went on to the next house, Mr. Johnson's, 
and got the information and traveled on. Got to C's 1 o'clock 
at night, found Mr. Ilouck there. Boys staid at the house while 
I went to the house. I took supper with them and got some 
meat and bread for the Boys. Miss Rogers was there. I could 
get but little information from Chandler. I went to the barn 
and we went into the straw to stay next day and cross at Brad- 
son 's next night. 

Wednesday, \lih — This morning the Home Guards got on 
our tracks, and by the aid of Citizens found us and carried us 
back to the Academy. Randell is Capt., Cresivell first Lieut., 
Rose 2nd, Moore a Private, Ingle, Keener and others. 

Thursflay, 18fh — Start this morning for Knoxville ; get in 
bout 1 p. m. Capt. Harnetts takes charge of me and sends me to 
Prison. 

Friday, 19th — I find one of the 11th Texas here, three or 
four of the 2nd Georgia. I send out a sunnuons to the Lodge 
for assistance ; two members call on me and promise to attend 
to my case, hut I hear no more from them. Another squad of 
96 prisonei's came in, also three of j\Iorgan's men. ]\lessrs. Church 
and Smith. 

IMa.j. Smith of Wheeler's staff called on us. Two other squads 
came in. With the last came Will Morton of the Battery or 
Company F. Alexander takes the oath and left us. ]\Iorton, 
myself, the two Churches and two Smiths form the mess. 

Sund'ay, 21st — Parson preached for us this evening. 

Thursday. 25th — A dull Christmas. Receiving one-(iuarter 
pound bread a day and bout one ])0und beef, no wood hardly — 
freezing and starving by inches. All this bring.s me up to the 
29th Monday. ^lorton tried to get to see his sister but could 
not. The I'arson came in and informed him that she died at 
'A o'clock thi.s morning. Such is the fate of war. In I'lO yai-ds 
of her and yet could not get to see her. 

Wedtn sddif, :]0(h — ]\lorton out on street parole. 



32 Diary of Ephraim Shelby Dodd 

Thursday, 'Mst — Miss Anna 15rool<s came around, Miss McMul- 
lin with her, brought me a pair of socks. I sent a note to Mrs. 
House by ITuj^plits to-night. 

Friday, \st daij of January, 1864 — Received one pair of drawers 
from IMiss Nannie Scott, two shirts from Mrs. House. One hun- 
dred and fifty of the prisoners .start to-day for Strawberry 
Plains. "We go to-morrow. 



Dodd was sentenced to death on or before January 5th. An 
extract from a letter ])y the general commanding and dated at 
Knoxville, Tenn., January 17, 1864, reads: 

"I also avail myself of this opportunity to forward an order 
publishing the proceedings, findings and sentence in the case 
of Private E. S. Dodd, Eighth Texas Confederate Cavalry, who 
was tried, condemned and execijted as a spy. 

"I also inclose a copy of an order which I have found it neces- 
sary to issue, in regard to the w^earing of the U. S. uniform by 
Confederate soldiers.*" 

"*Inclosure No. 7 (here omitted) contains General Orders, 
No. 3, Department of the Ohio, January 5, 1864, promulgating 
charges, findings and sentence to death in the case of E. S. 
Dodd, Eighth Texas Cavalry, arrested and tried as a spy." — 
War of Ihe Rebellion, Series III, Vol. 4, p. 53. 



